Loretta Mooney

Economic Development

We’re part of the big picture.

When it comes to economic vitality and growth, we’re in this together. Widener’s strategic
plan supports economic development projects that attract jobs, encourage small business
creation, spur investment, and generate pride in the communities we serve.

Partners For Progress

We’re excited about our economic development partnerships and community renewal projects.

University Crossings, a $50 million Widener University project that is bringing new
businesses, services, and more than 100 jobs to Chester. In addition to a projected
economic impact of $1 million dollars each year, University Crossings provides over
$1 million in property tax revenue to the city and the Chester Upland School District,
more than $80,000 in earned income tax revenues from the new jobs created, and $600,000
in business privilege taxes, over the next 10 years.

University Technology Park is a developing technology corridor strategically located
minutes from Philadelphia International Airport and I-95 that aims to attract high-tech
businesses to Chester. The project was created by Widener University, Crozer Chester
Medical Center. A designated zone that leverages the combined resources of educational
institutions, private businesses, business support organizations, commercial lending
institutions, venture capital networks, and foundations to foster innovation and entrepreneurial
opportunities.

At the Widener University Small Business Development Center (SBDC), one of 18 such centers in Pennsylvania and an accredited affiliate of the
national Association of Small Business Development Centers, Widener student interns
and faculty experts offer free management consulting, education programs, and other
services to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.

Economic Inclusion Plan

Widener University benefits from institutionalizing inclusive practices that build
capacity and broaden opportunities for participation and increase competition for
underserved businesses and entrepreneurs who contribute to the local economy. Embedded
in this strategy is Widener’s Economic Inclusion Plan. To support the university’s
economic inclusion efforts, the Economic Inclusion Council was established in 2012
to help advance, sustain, and promote inclusive business practices. The Council meets
regularly to review and monitor progress made in construction and procurement, and
submits an annual report to the university.

The Economic Inclusion Council will actively seek to identify qualified minority,
women-owned, and Chester-based businesses and offer them an opportunity to participate
as providers of goods and services and participate on construction projects. It is
the intent of Widener University to cultivate business partnerships and promote the
economic growth of Chester and Delaware County. Vendors interested in partnering with
the university should contact: The Procurement Office Director, Michelle Shelton at:
(610) 499-4239.